Top 11 Awesome and Kid-Friendly Weekend Getaways from Seattle
Seattle continues to be a top family-friendly destination, especially during the summer months where the city is at its best. It is very easy to never leave the city limits due to the large variety of activities available to the busy traveler (read more about our top family-friendly activities!). But you’d remiss if you did not consider a quick weekend getaway during your travels to Seattle. The Pacific Northwest is arguably one of the most beautiful places on the planet. And there are a ton of places to visit outside of the city that will surely be the “cherry on top” of your PNW adventures.
1. Olympic National Park
One of three national parks in the state of Washington, Olympic National Park offers a unique landscape for the nature lovers. From glacial mountain tops to coastline beaches, you’d never guess you were in the same park! And to round out its uniqueness, it is also home to one of the largest temperate rainforests in the United States, the Hoh Rainforest. The Olympic National Park makes for the perfect weekend trip during a visit to Seattle (although you will be wishing you had just a few more days!).
Travel Duration: Approximately a 3-4 hour drive.
If you are not on a time crunch, take the Washington State Ferry for a more scenic route to the Olympic National Park. The quickest route would be the Seattle to Bainbridge Island ferry. During the summer months, the ferries are known to have long wait times. Be sure to check out the ferry schedule ahead of time and plan accordingly.
Top things to do in the Olympic National Park
- Hike Hurricane Ridge for breathtaking views of the mountain ranges that make the park.
- Stroll through the Hoh Rainforest and soak in the beauty of the bright green landscape.
- Explore the tidepools or go driftwood hunting during low tide at Rialto Beach.
- Visit Forks, WA, which was put on the map by the Twilight movie saga.
- Take in the stunning views of the pacific at the Cape Flattery Lighthouse.
2. San Juan Islands
Tucked away between the shores of Washington State and Canada is the archipelago known as San Juan Islands. Only accessible by ferry boat or plane, these islands are one of the most popular destinations in Washington State, and a great weekend trip from Seattle. Orcas Island, the largest of the islands, is our personal favorite, however each of the islands is a gem of its own.
Travel Duration: Approximately 3 hours between the drive to Anacortes and the ferry ride to Friday Harbor, San Juan Island.
Looking for a unique way to travel to the San Juan Islands? Hop aboard a seaplane from Lake Union or Lake Washington. It is the quickest way to get to the islands with only a 1 hour flight. And the views from above are absolutely stunning!
Top Things to Do in the San Juan Islands
- Visit the many shops, art galleries, and museums in Friday Harbor.
- Hike to the top of Mount Constitution and take in the priceless views at Moran State Park on Orcas Island.
- Take an eco-tour to view the vast array of wildlife that call the Puget Sound home.
- Explore Lime Kiln Point State Park, with a must stop visit to the Lime Kiln Lighthouse.
- Learn about the British occupation of San Juan Island at the English Camp Parade Grounds.
3. Whidbey Island
Known mostly for its large naval base and military presence, Whidbey Island is a little-known traveler’s gem. From lush forests to charming seaside towns and hiking trails galore. there are many family-friendly activities to fill up your weekend trip. Once you cross over the bridge onto the island, take your time to enjoy the beauty as you meander through this scenic Pacific Northwest destination.
Travel Duration: Just over an hour car ride from Seattle.
Top Things to do in Whidbey Island
- Cross over the Deception Pass Bridge and stop for scenic photo at Deception Pass State Park.
- Spend the afternoon shopping and enjoying a scoop of ice cream at Kapaws Iskreme in the quaint town of Coupeville.
- Take in the scenic views from the family-friendly Ebey’s Landing Hiking Trail.
- Enjoy the beauty of Washington State’s flower, the Rhododendron, at the Meerkerk Gardens.
- Learn about the naval history of Widbey Island at the Pacific Northwest Naval Air Museum.
4. Leavenworth, WA
Tucked away in the middle of the Cascade Mountains is a quaint town that transports you to a Bavarian cityscape straight out of the Swiss Alps. Originally a bustling train depot, the city of Leavenworth has become a major tourist destination, and one of our favorite weekend getaways when visiting Seattle.
Winter is generally the most popular time to visit Leavenworth as the town turns into a magical snow globe. Taking the train from Seattle’s King Station to Icicle Station will be a highlight on your winter wonderland vacation. We particularly enjoy the summer months as we like to take advantage of exploring the gorgeous nature behind the cityscape. However, a visit to Leavenworth, no matter the time of the year, will sure be a trip to remember!
Travel Duration: 2 hours by car or 4 hours by train.
If you are planning a trip to Leavenworth during the winter and spring months, be sure to check road closures ahead of time. The drive from Seattle will take you through Stevens Mountain Pass, and often times Highway 2 will close for inclement weather or avalanche control.
Top things to do in Leavenworth
- Browse over 9000 unique nutcrackers at the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum!
- Explore the great outdoors by going for a hike on the many trails around the city. Difficulties range from easy to strenuous, making it a very family-friendly activity!
- Eat a bratwurst with a pint of beer like a true German!
- Visit the Greater Leavenworth Museum to learn about the town’s history and how it came to be the Bavarian city it is today.
- Buy an ornament at the Kris Kringle Christmas store.
5. Lake CHelan, WA
Located in central Washington State is Lake Chelan, a narrow lake about 50.5 miles long, and a top destination for locals and visitors alike. The lake itself is reminiscent of a Nordic fjord, and the views are absolutely stunning. The sun shines in Lake Chelan for over 300 days of the year, making it the perfect weekend getaway when visiting Seattle. From a plethora of water activities, to hiking trails, and top-rated restaurants, there is something to do for everyone in the family.
Travel Duration: Approximately 3 hour drive to Chelan, WA.
Top things to do in Lake Chelan
- Rent a jet ski or boat and spend the day exploring the lake.
- Go for a hike on one of the many trails around and in the outskirts of Lake Chelan.
- Treat yourself to a wine tasting at some of the best wineries in Washington state!
- Take a break from the lake and have a water day at Slidewaters Water Park.
- Stop by one of the few farmer’s markets to indulge in locally grown and homemade foods. Be sure to pick up a pint of cherries if you are visiting in the middle of summer!
6. North Cascades National Park
The second of the national parks in Washington State is North Cascades National Park. Driving into the park you will be met with awe-inspiring jagged granite peaks and sparkling blue glacial lakes. The North Cascades is an outdoor enthusiasts dream. Here you will find a variety of hiking trails, rock climbing and mountaineering routes, and backcountry camping. However, you do not need to be an expert to experience the beauty this place has to offer. There is something to do for all skill levels and interests!
Travel Duration: Approximately a 3 hour drive.
The North Cascades National Park is best enjoyed during the summer due to accessibility. If you plan to enjoy the winter wonderland beauty of the North Cascades be sure to check transportation routes prior to your visit. The North Cascades Highway (State Route 20) generally closes every winter due to snow and avalanche hazards.
Top Things to do in the North Cascades
- Experience the charm of the old western town of Winthrop.
- Book a guided climbing tour in Mazama with a local tour outfitter.
- Rent a watercraft and spend the day exploring Ross Lake.
- Hike the family-friendly Thunder Knob Trail to gain views of the stunning Diablo Lake.
- Drive the North Cascades Highway and stop at the many overlooks to see why the PNW is one of the most beautiful places on the planet!
7. Birch Bay, WA
Near the Canadian border is the quaint seaside town of Birch Bay. This resort town is a popular summer weekend getaway for both local Seattleites and tourists alike. With the serene beauty of the Salish Sea and surrounding forests, it’s the perfect place to slow down and get in touch with nature. Birch Bay is most known for the large bay of water with just over 3 miles of shoreline to explore!
Travel Duration: Just over a 2-hour drive from Seattle city center.
Top things to do in Birch Bay
- Explore tidepools during low tide for up close learning about the ecosystem of Birch Bay.
- Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastlines from a different vantage point.
- Have a fun and exhilarating day with the whole family at Birch Bay Waterslides.
- Head into the main town for a seafood feast at one of the many eateries.
- Venture onto the family-friendly Terrell Marsh Trail and interpretive loop at Birch Bay State Park.
8. Mt. Rainier National Park
Flying into Seattle it is not uncommon to get a front row seat to the tallest mountain in the state of Washington. A visit to the third national park in the state, Mt. Rainier National Park will provide you with an up and close experience of this 14,406-foot volcano. With all the nature, wildlife, and variety of accommodations, it is the perfect weekend getaway for a little R&R on your trip to Seattle. You will want to make sure you have enough storage space on your camera as every corner you take will be photo worthy!
Travel Duration: Approximately 2.5 hour drive.
Mt. Rainier National Park is surrounded by mountain passes, and thus accessing the park during the winter and spring months can be difficult. Be sure to check road closures ahead of time, or plan a visit during the summer (which we think is the perfect time to go!)
Top Things to Do in Mt. Rainier National Park
- View the scenic meadows with Mt. Rainier in the backdrop along the Sunrise Nature Trail.
- Snap a photo at Reflection Lakes with perfect views of Mt. Rainier.
- Have lunch at the historic Paradise Inn. This is also the perfect place to stay for an immersive experience.
- Take in views of the Nisqually Glacier along the Skyline Trail in the Paradise area.
- See the stunning 168-foot Narada Falls from either the upper lookout or a short 0.2 mile walk to the lower base.
9. Ocean Shores, WA
Another popular seaside town is Ocean Shores. As the name suggest, most visitors come here to take in the beaches and views of the Pacific Ocean! No matter the time of the year, Ocean Shores is a great destination for a weekend getaway from Seattle. Once just a small and quiet beach town, Ocean Shores is now a bustling resort area with tons of activities, shopping, and eateries.
Travel Duration: Approximately a 2.5-to-3-hour drive from Seattle.
The beaches of Washington State are very different than the tropical beaches you think of in Hawaii, California, or Florida. While a different kind of beauty all on its own, they are known to be windy and chilly. Especially during the colder months. Be sure to dress accordingly to ensure a comfortable day at the beach!
Top things to do in Ocean Shores
- Of course, spend the day at the town’s namesake, Ocean Shores Beach!
- Pick up a few souvenirs at Sharky’s gift shop, and don’t miss snapping a photo in the giant mouth of Sharky himself!
- Buy a kite at one of the few kite shops in town and head to the beach to partake in a local favorite pasttime.
- Learn more about the history of Washington State’s coast at the Coastal Interpretative Center.
- Head to North Jetty to go driftwood hunting or watch the variety of wildlife who call the area home.
10. Portland, OREGON
The other popular Pacific Northwest city is the smaller and quirkier Portland, Oregon. The city is full of hipsters, art galleries, and unique eateries. When you visit you will see why locals proudly coin the term “Keep Portland Weird”. As you head south and cross over the Oregon-Washington Bridge, you will be met with beautiful views of the Columbia River, with the industrial buildings of the city in the backdrop. Portland has a large variety of activities for the whole family to enjoy. Washingtonians also love coming down to the largest city in Oregon for a shopping weekend trip as it is one of a few states with no sales tax. Yay for shopping!
Travel Duration: It takes about 3-hours to get to Portland from Seattle, however traffic is notoriously awful near the border, so expect a longer drive. Especially during peak travel times.
Top Things to do in Portland
- Find your new favorite beer by visiting one (or a few) of the nearly hundred local breweries.
- See why Portland is known as the “City of Roses” with a visit to the International Rose Test Garden.
- Indulge in unique sweet treats at Voodoo Doughnuts.
- Be mesmerized by the 620-foot Multnomah Falls, one of the most popular destinations in Oregon.
- Explore the great outdoors within a metropolis at Mt. Tabor Park.
11. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
One could argue Vancouver, BC is like the Seattle of Canada. It is a major metropolis, is an outdoor enthusiast’s mecca, and has a ton of family-friendly activities. If you have the ability to travel to a different country during your vacation to Seattle, it would be the perfect weekend trip! When we lived in Washington, we loved taking quick trips to visit our neighbors up north. Vancouver offers a great variety of museums, walking trails, shopping, and eateries. And although located in a different country, it is an easy city to navigate around. Vancouver is certainly a must-visit when in the Pacific Northwest!
Travel Duration: Approximately 2.5-hour drive from Seattle, however you will likely encounter a wait at the US-Canada Border Crossing. If you are traveling during peak times, waits could be several hours.
If you are considering a weekend trip to Vancouver, BC, be sure to review the required documents and regulations when visiting Canada, prior to your trip. It is important to also confirm whether you are allowed to take your rental car (if you have one) into another county.
Top things to do in Vancouver, BC
- Learn about marine wildlife at the Vancouver Aquarium, Canada’s largest aquarium.
- Take a stroll through the network of trails at Stanley Park. Hungry? Grab a bite to eat at Stanley Park Brewing!
- Shop from local artisans at the Granville Island Public Market.
- Trek across the Capilano Suspension Bridge, 450 feet above the Capilano River. Not for the faint of heart!
- Be amazed with the hands-on STEM activities at Science World.
These destinations are just a handful (and our personal favorites!) of the MANY weekend getaways you can take from Seattle. The Pacific Northwest has a lot to offer, and you can’t go wrong with any detour you choose. Happy Travels!
Have you recently visited Seattle and taken a weekend trip during your stay? Please share your thoughts and suggestions below!
